Universal Studios Names Betty White the ‘Who-Manitarian of the Year’

Seven-time Emmy and Grammy and Screen Actors Guild winner Betty White, who shoots Hot in Cleveland in Studio City, is being presented the “Who-Manitarian of the Year” Award. She is also the star of the blockbuster film, Dr. Seuss’ “The Lorax,” and is being presented the award by Max the dog to officiate Universal Studios Hollywood’s very, merry “Grinchmas” holiday celebration.

Hailed as “Ambassador to the Animals” by the City of Los Angeles for her lifelong work on behalf of animal welfare, White was recently named Chairman of the Greater LA Zoo Association. She also serves as President Emeritus of the Morris Animal Foundation, a world leader in funding groundbreaking veterinary research.

There will also be more than 100 Los Angeles elementary school students from the Inner City Educational Foundation charter school.

“Grinchmas” returns to Universal Studios Hollywood as The Entertainment Capital of L.A. prepares for a lively holiday season with The Grinch, his faithful dog Max, tons of fresh snow, and nightly celebrity readings as part of the vibrant “Whobilation” tree lighting celebrations.

“Grinchmas” begins on the weekend of Dec. 8 and 9, continues daily from Dec. 15 to 31 and is included in the price of theme park admission.

At the heart of the snow-covered winter wonderland towers a whimsical, curving 60 foot tall “Grinchmas” tree surrounded by The Grinch, Max and a colorfully costumed Who-ville choir, caroling and spreading holiday cheer in enchanting “Whobilation” performances.

Prior to select tree-lighting Whobilations, celebrities from the worlds of film, television and music will join the festivities to help Universal Studios Hollywood celebrate “Grinchmas” by reading entertaining interpretations of Dr. Seuss’ heart-warming tale. 

More than 30 celebrity readers are confirmed to participate in this year’s program, including Nia Vardolos (“My Big, Fat Greek Wedding”) on Dec. 8; Jillian Michaels (“The Biggest Loser”) on Dec. 9; Blair Underwood and star of “Community,” Yvette Nicole Brown on Dec. 15; Tia Mowry-Hardict on Dec. 20; Diego Boneta (“Rock of Ages”) on Dec, 22; Chris Gorham (“Covert Affairs”) on Dec, 25; and Dot Marie Jones (“Glee”) on Dec. 31, among others.

Throughout the event, The Grinch, Max and the Who-ville Whos will be on hand and paw to meet fans and take memorable holiday photos, while families gather to enjoy traditional winter fun, romping together in a playground of fresh, real snow.

“Grinchmas” will also provide fans of the blockbuster film a close-up view of the original Who-ville film sets, featured in the Dr. Seuss’ “How the Grinch Stole Christmas” movie, aboard the world-famous behind-the-scenes Studio Tour.  As the tram rolls to a stop amid the fanciful Who-ville buildings, guests will experience a one-of-a-kind performance by a Who’s Who of Who-ville re-enacting favorite scenes and songs from the film.

More information, including updates on the “Grinchmas” celebrity readings, will be available at www.UniversalStudiosHollywood.com.

As families prepare for holiday gift giving, Universal Studios Hollywood’s popular “Buy A Day, Get 2013 Free" annual pass offers tremendous value and visits throughout 2013 for the price of a single day’s admission. Guests who purchase the “Buy A Day, Get 2013 Free” pass will be able to come back to experience Universal Studios Hollywood‘s award-winning thrill rides, including the new “Transformers:  The Ride—3D” and receive savings on tickets purchased for visiting friends and family.

The event will include nightly tree lighting ceremonies at the 60-ft tall whimsical curving “Grinchmas” tree.  More information is available at www.UniversalStudiosHollywood.com.